Supermarket chain apologises for telling staff they must only speak English

A Dublin supermarket chain has apologised for issuing a communication policy that told staff they must speak English at all times, including when on their breaks.

A copy of Fresh’s original communications policy was widely shared online after it stated that “when working employees are requested to use the English language at all times” and warned those who are heard speaking a language other than English may be subject to disciplinary action.

“If you have difficulty with the English language and need to ask for a translation that is ok, but we would ask that this be done as little as possible. We would also ask that this policy be applied during rest breaks,” the original missive said, adding the use of other languages can make colleagues and customers “uncomfortable”.